Women’s Words to Lead By

Women make up about 50 percent of the U.S. workforce but only 5 percent of chief executive officers at Standard and Poor’s 500 index companies and only 26 percent of college and university presidents. For women of color, the numbers are even more dismal: Fewer than 3 percent of board directors at Fortune 500 companies are black, Hispanic, or Asian. In politics, women represent 19 percent of the U.S. Congress and a smaller fraction of governors. With these numbers, it’s no wonder that advice and criticism on the gender gap in leadership continue to resonate.

During Women’s History Month and all year long, take heart from these words from some great women leaders. And once you’re fired up, share your favorites using #leadHERship!

“As women, we must stand up for ourselves … for each other … for justice for all.” ― Michelle Obama, first lady of the United States

“Some leaders are born women.” ― Geraldine Ferraro, first female U.S. vice-presidential candidate representing a major political party

“I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels.” — Maya Angelou, writer, civil rights activist

“There is no royal flower-strewn path to success. And if there is, I have not found it, for if I have accomplished anything in life it is because I have been willing to work hard.” — Madam C.J. Walker, American entrepreneur, philanthropist, and political and social activist